While the words suppressor and silencer are used interchangeably, the proper term for the device would be suppressor. Using the term silencer suggests that the device will completely silence a gun's shot. However, it won't do that. What it does do is suppress the sound and the muzzle flash. You can still hear the shot, but it is quieter. The suppressor works by catching the gasses that leave the gun's barrel and keeping them from expanding as quickly. If you are going to get a suppressor for a pistol for the first time, you may need to have some tips on how to get the right one for your weapon.
Get the Right Caliber
Depending on how the suppressor is mounted to your pistol, it could theoretically be mounted to a number of guns. Just because the suppressor could go on more than one gun doesn't mean that you should use it on different guns, especially if they are of different calibers. Like your pistol, your suppressor is designed for a specific caliber, so make sure you get the suppressor for the caliber gun you are using.
Check the Weight
A suppressor is going to add weight to your gun no matter what. Depending on what you are using it for, that weight can be a large factor. For example, if you target shoot, you need to hold your weapon securely and for a long time, especially in competition. If you get a larger suppressor, one that will suppress the sound more thoroughly, it can add a lot of weight to your weapon and make it harder for you to hold it for a long time. That can make it hard for you to hold the gun as long as you might need when you are target shooting. However, if you aren't going to be holding your pistol for a long time and need the quieter feature, you might want to go with the larger one. So, see if you can try the suppressor on your pistol before you buy it so that you can see how your pistol fits in your hand with the added weight.
If you want to get a suppressor for your pistol, you want to make sure that you are getting the right one. There are some tips that you can take advantage of that will help you find the suppressor that's right for you and your needs. For more information about buying a suppressor or pistol silencer, contact a local gun shop.